In a poignant moment, NASCAR icon Jimmie Johnson has finally spoken out about the heartbreaking murder-suicide that claimed the lives of his in-laws and their 11-year-old grandson, Dalton Janway, who was Johnson’s nephew. The tragic incident occurred in June and involved 69-year-old Jack Janway and his 68-year-old wife Terry Janway.
NASCAR star Jimmie Johnson’s in-laws dead in apparent murder-suicide. pic.twitter.com/jl956MAnpm
— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) June 27, 2023
According to The Daily Wire, Johnson posted a statement on his Instagram account, conveying his appreciation to those who have offered their support during this difficult time of bereavement.
“Our family is devastated by the profound loss of [Terry] Lynn, Jack, and Dalton Janway,” Johnson wrote. “We have been humbled by the outpouring of love and support during this unthinkably sad time and remain grateful for all of your compassion.”
CNN’s report identified Terry Janway as the shooter.
In response to the tragedy, Johnson expressed his gratitude to the supportive individuals during this period of loss and mourning through a statement on his Instagram account, as reported by The Daily Wire.
“Our family is devastated by the profound loss of [Terry] Lynn, Jack, and Dalton Janway,” Johnson wrote. “We have been humbled by the outpouring of love and support during this unthinkably sad time and remain grateful for all of your compassion.”
Muskogee Mayor Marlon Coleman commented to Fox 23:
“It was traumatizing to find out that a long-standing family who had made so many contributions to our community was involved in this type of incident. It was even more bone-chilling to find out there was a child involved,” Coleman told the outlet. “I knew Dr. Janway. Dr. Janway has worked on me, we’ve been acquaintances for a very, very long time since I’ve been in Muskogee. Just knowing that it was him and his family took a different toll on me.”
After the devastating event, Johnson made the decision to withdraw from his scheduled races.
In his recent message, the seven-time NASCAR champion emphasized the significance of mental health and urged everyone not to ignore its importance. The incident sparked a discussion about this critical issue, prompting Johnson to encourage those feeling down or uncertain to reach out to someone for support.
NASCAR administrators conveyed their condolences to the Johnson and Janway families.
Johnson expressed his gratitude for the prayers and kindness he received, acknowledging that coping with such a tragic loss requires time, understanding, and support.
“I just encourage everyone to talk. And remember, it’s okay not to be okay,” Johnson said.
Jimmie Johnson stresses the importance of recognizing that mental health can impact anyone, and he urges individuals to treat this matter seriously and offer support to those who might be facing difficulties.
If you or someone you know is in a crisis situation, please call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or 800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
